Most people have experienced a fire detection and alarm system in action, whether it was during school, as part of a planned evacuation drill, or an accidental alarm during an event. But rarely do people think about fire alarm system design or how the components of a fire alarm system work. The four main purposes of a basic fire alarm system are:
- Detect a fire
- Alert occupants of the fire condition
- Activate safety control functions
- Alert the local fire department
Some of the fire alarm system components require complex design and engineering to accomplish, but in all cases these serve as one of the four primary functions.
All the purposes of a basic fire alarm system are accomplished by a series of inputs and outputs. The system inputs consist of fire detection devices and system monitoring devices that activate the control panel and the outputs are responsible for occupant notification and control functions associated with life safety.
Fire Detection
Most of us are familiar with smoke and heat detectors because these devices are installed in our homes. Detecting a fire is typically accomplished by installing smoke and/or heat detectors, manual pull stations and automatic sprinkler system water flow switches. Another important component of a fire alarm system is a water flow switch that detects the movement of water in the sprinkler piping, typically done by a paddle-type device that is activated by water moving through a pipe when a sprinkler is activated.
Occupant Notification
When it comes to warning building occupants of a fire, you need both audible and visible alarms. Audible alarms include horns (the appliance that produces that loud and very annoying sound) or speakers that play a pre-recorded message and/or allow emergency responders to provide spoken instructions to the occupants. Visual notification appliances, or strobes, can provide notification to occupants that are hearing impaired. Each building type will require a different type of occupant notification system.
Control Functions
There are many different types of control functions that the components of a basic fire alarm system perform. The activation of a duct mounted smoke detector will shut down the heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment to prevent the migration of smoke to non-affected areas of the building. A smoke detector in an elevator lobby will automatically recall the cars to a designated floor.
Fire Department Notification
The codes require that fire alarm signals be automatically transmitted directly to the local fire department, or to a central station monitoring service, notifying the fire department of the emergency. This gives the fire department a signal immediately and allows them the opportunity to extinguish the fire before it gets too big.
Overall, the fire alarm industry is constantly evolving and it is critical that you stay ahead of the latest changes. We leverage our knowledge of fire detection and alarm system technology and codes to deliver the latest solutions.
What’s been your experience with fire alarm system design? Shoot us a note at info@jensenhughes.com or tweet us @jensenhughes